Top Moving Safety Tips for a Smooth Transition

Updated on May 20, 2025

If you are moving into a new home, chances are you know how hard it can be. There is a lot of physical labor on your part if you do a DIY move - a lot of heavy lifting of heavy objects that you might not have the proper moving equipment to safely move on your own. Now, you can hire a professional moving company to provide professional labor services, but that can add a lot to your budget, so if you are unable to pay for such a luxury, you will need to make your move happen yourself.

We here at 1-800-PACK-RAT are here to help with the tips you need to have a safe moving process. Unfortunately, it isn’t uncommon to have accidents or incur injuries during this time because we tend to try to get through it as quickly as possible. But with the right tips and by taking your time, you can reduce the safety risks to you, your family, and your moving helpers! Take a look at our safety tips to ensure your move is made safely and injury-free.

Tips for How to Make a Move Safely

Before you begin packing your stuff, take a look at some of the things you can do to ensure your safety during your upcoming move! Whether you are moving for the first time or you can't count the number of moves you've made on two hands, these tips are valuable for any mover to learn or just have as a refresher!

Wear proper shoes for the occasion

Moving day is not the day for flip-flops or sandals. You want to wear closed-toed shoes that offer proper support and have a good non-slip sole for slippery surfaces. You will likely be walking around on various surfaces or moving in varying weather conditions. Either way, you need to have proper shoes for both inside and outside areas that will give you the support you need to move your stuff without dropping or breaking anything or injuring yourself. Avoid serious injury or breakage of your stuff by doing the easiest safety check on this list and wearing proper shoes.

Use the right boxes for your stuff

There is a difference that can be found in varying types of moving boxes. For starters, there are regular and heavy-duty boxes. Regular boxes can be used for a number of items, such as papers, lighter books, miscellaneous items, etc. Now these boxes can be taped heavily on the bottom, but if you move in the rain and they get wet or if you overload them with heavy items, these types of boxes can fail and break. That is where dual-layered boxes come in handy. These are essential two-ply cardboard boxes that are very strong and allow you to increase the weight without worrying about the box falling apart.

Boxes are also made for specific items, such as your TV, wardrobe, and much more. By utilizing the right box to pack your stuff, you can avoid minor injuries and keep your fragile items and stuff safe from being broken during your move! Be sure to get the necessary moving supplies before you begin your moving process.

If you can get a moving dolly - use it

This may seem like a waste of money at first glance, but moving dollies are well worth the investment for any move. You can likely borrow one from a friend or even rent one if you don’t want to buy one outright. Using a dolly will allow you to move heavier items with less strain on your body. You will be able to stack two or three boxes and use little effort to get them outside to your mobile storage unit.

A furniture/appliance dolly is a must for furniture and heavier appliances! These are a little more rare, and typically, professional labor providers are the only ones who carry them, but if you are making a DIY move, look for these unique dollies. When used correctly, they will help keep you safe from major injury, take strain off your body, and allow you to lift and move these large items the right way.

Ask for or hire help

Don’t be afraid to ask nearby family, friends, or neighbors for assistance when moving. Just be sure to have plenty of water and snacks or have food delivered for your moving helpers. The more help you have, the easier your move will be for everyone. If your budget allows, you can hire a local moving company and get the help of professionals to pack and load your container. You will need to have your stuff packed in boxes and labeled clearly, but these pros can help pack your moving solution or portable storage container the right way, as they have all of the tools and muscle to make the move simple.

Professional movers have years of experience helping people make moves. If you can fit it into your budget, it certainly beats having to move and carry heavy furniture or pack boxes in a way that makes the most of your space!

Use proper lifting technique while moving

Back injuries are one of the most common injuries when moving. When lifting something from the ground, you should keep your back straight, bending at the knees. You should also be careful not to twist your back when turning with the item but carefully move your feet first in the direction you want to move. Hold the heavy item near your waist. If something doesn’t feel right, carefully set the object down and try again after taking a break.

Never - and we cannot stress this enough - ever try to move something oversized or very heavy by yourself. Either ask for help from one or two people, or have professionals handle the movement of these items.

Secure cords and tripping hazards

Another common mistake that can lead to injuries is not securing the cords to devices like the television or refrigerator when moving them. Cords are major tripping hazards, so be sure to wrap them up and secure them using a little packing tape or zip ties. If you need to lay down floor mats or loose rugs for you and your helpers to keep the floors as clean as possible, consider taping them to the floor to keep them secure in one spot.

Keep pathways clear to your doorway

This one might sound like common sense, but it is easier said than done, especially with how frantic a move can get. Always ensure that the major pathways into and out of your home are clear, including your front door or wherever the most traffic is going to be at. Never leave boxes in doorways or on the front stoop, as they can quickly become tripping hazards, causing injury or breakage of your stuff.

One way to keep the place clear is always to have a spotter watch for such things, especially if you are moving a piece of furniture, a large box, or an appliance. A spotter will be able to ensure you don't damage walls, doorways, or have issues with tripping hazards. Making sure those walkways are kept clear will help keep tripping hazards to a minimum.

Stay hydrated, take plenty of breaks, and have emergency supplies on hand

It’s easy to get dehydrated when packing and moving because you are expending a lot of energy to move all of your stuff, and dehydration can quickly lead to major health issues that can put a full stop on your moving plans. That is why you should have plenty of water on hand for you and your moving help, and be sure everyone is taking frequent breaks during the move, especially if you are moving during the summer months. If you are moving in cold weather, the rule still applies, as dehydration can happen at any time, but can sneak up on you when you are cold.

Another thing you should have on hand in the case of an emergency is a first aid kit. Inevitably, no matter how safe you try to make your move, someone will get at least a minor injury. In the case of a cut or minor laceration, you will want a first aid kit consisting of bandages, medical tape, anti-bacterial gel, etc., that you can break into to treat such wounds. Your top priority during any move is you and your moving help's health - without it, your move will come to a complete halt, throwing a wrench into your plans!

Let 1-800-PACK-RAT Help Make Your Next Move Easier

So many injuries happen on moving days because folks are trying to rush to get ahead of a moving clock from their mover. This is most notable when using a rented moving truck, as you are often forced to make a move all in one day - packing, driving, and unpacking all of your stuff in a few hours or a day - to avoid extra charges. Rushing your move is one of the surest ways to make a mistake or get injured during a move. That is why you should work with a mover who respects you and gives you all the time you need to pack at your own pace. 1-800-PACK-RAT is that mover!

Here is how moving works with 1-800-PACK-RAT: we will deliver an all-steel, weather-resistant portable storage container to your home on your preferred date. You can then pack it at your own pace - no rushing, hassles, or making mistakes. When done, give us a call or schedule the next leg of your journey in your My PackRat account, and we will pick up your container and deliver it to your new home, or we can have it stored in one of our secure, nationwide storage facilities for as long as you need. It is that simple.

Whether you are moving locally or long-distance, 1-800-PACK-RAT has you covered. No other competing portable storage container solution or traditional storage area can compete with our containers and flexibility. We simplify moving and storage by taking the time crunch and driving completely out of the equation.

To learn more or get started on planning your move, give us a call or go online for a free quote and make your moving and storage needs simple today!

Frequently Asked Questions About Moving Safety Tips

What are the most essential moving safety tips to keep in mind?

When moving, prioritize safety by lifting with your legs, not your back, and using proper equipment like dollies. Secure heavy items and avoid overpacking boxes to prevent injury. Always keep pathways clear to avoid tripping hazards, ensuring a smooth transition throughout the moving process.

How can you prevent injuries while moving heavy furniture?

To prevent injuries while moving heavy furniture, use proper lifting techniques, such as bending your knees and keeping your back straight. Additionally, wear supportive footwear and consider using tools like dollies or straps. Always enlist help from others to ensure safety and reduce strain on your body during the move.

What safety gear should you wear during a move?

When moving, it's essential to wear safety gear like sturdy gloves, steel-toed boots, and a back support belt if possible. These items help prevent injuries while lifting heavy objects and provide protection against drops or accidents. Prioritizing safety gear ensures a smoother and safer moving experience for everyone involved.

What are some tips for lifting boxes and avoiding back strain?

To lift boxes safely and avoid back strain, bend at your knees, keeping your back straight. Hold the box close to your body and use your legs to lift, not your back. Additionally, consider asking for help with heavy or awkward items to minimize risk and ensure safety during your move.

How can you ensure your pets are safe during a move?

To ensure your pets are safe during a move, create a designated quiet space for them away from the chaos. Use carriers or crates to transport them securely, and keep their essentials handy. Additionally, maintain their routine as much as possible to minimize stress during the transition.